Chicago

Looking to undo the havoc winter has wreaked on your skin? Whether you’re feeling dry, cracked, raw or just a little blah, these extravagant and luxuriously haute body treatments will perk you right up and put some pep back in your step. Midwest Survival 101.

Arturo Gomez is President of Rockit Ranch Productions, Chicago’s premier restaurant and entertainment development company, specializing in the creation, marketing and management of some of the city’s top venues. Beginning his career in 1998 as director of operations for a large Chicago nightlife company where he established his long-time association with Billy Dec and Brad Young, Gomez later joined Rockit Ranch Productions as director of operations where he led all aspects of operations and marketing, working in conjunction with Dec and Young. Gomez was appointed chief operating officer and partner of Rockit Ranch Productions in 2004 when he managed and oversaw the development of Rockit Bar & Grill and in 2006, The Underground. In late 2008 he became president of Rockit Ranch Productions before opening Sunda in early 2009. Less than two months later he opened a new location of Rockit Bar & Grill in Wrigleyville. With partners Dec and Young, Gomez was presented with the “Operator of the Year” Award at the The Nightclub and Bar Convention in 2008.

I’d be a lot more prone to staying on a diet if diet food didn’t taste so diet-y disgusting. Nutrisystem, Weight Watchers, [insert your favorite meal plan here], they all sound good in theory, but leave that sour taste in your mind of do I really want to eat that when the chocolate chip cookies just look that much better? Maybe it’s a lack of will power or maybe it’s a recurring theme with trying to eat healthy.

If you’re one of the 60% of Americans who vowed to shed the holiday pounds as your New Year’s Resolution, we’re here to help keep it interesting. There’s always the standard workout- running, elliptical machine, free weights, rinse and repeat, but that’s how exercise becomes a chore. These new programs keep your 2011 workout spicy, interesting and have the staying power to ensure your athletic ADD doesn’t hold you back from achieving your goals.

2010 left us with some heavy hitters in the restaurant world. There was shock (L20), awe (Alinea), BBQ a plenty and the gastropub bonanza. And 2011 promises to set the bar even higher. In order to prepare for some of the most anticipated openings of the new year, we suggest starting the diet early so you don’t feel guilty indulging.

Great fitness facilities are more than just a place to lift weights and pump iron. They inspire a balanced lifestyle through innovative classes, healthy eating, and spa services. Here are your top 5 fitness clubs to get motivated, strong and start the new year with a bang.

If you were asked to name one famous architect in Chicago, undoubtedly the first name that would come to mind is Frank Lloyd Wright. Known for his Prairie, organic style homes, Wright custom-designed every detail down to the fixtures, furniture, carpet, windows, doors, tables, and light fittings.

New Years Eve, a night to look back and reflect on 2010 in all it’s glory- the good, the bad, and the times we drink to forget. So light up the fireworks and grab the sparklers because here in Chicago we party like it’s 1999 every day. Cheers!

In need of a last minute hostess gift? What about the timeless and often dismissed fruitcake? Emily Smith, Chief Baking Officer of Sweet Cake’s Bakery in Ukrainian Village provides a way for locals to purchase a gift of fruitcake that is actually edible- and has customers raving about as the standout on the holiday treat menu. 

“I’ve never had a job and I don’t want one,” photographer Jeff Kauck says with a laugh. It’s not entirely true, of course, as Kauck has built a successful career based on his expertise behind the camera. To him, however, it has never felt like work; instead, it’s an expression of passion for his subjects in the food world and his love for what he does. Kauck’s food and still life photography has graced the pages of national magazines, cookbooks, and been the part of national advertising campaigns and packaging for over the last 20 years. It has garnered numerous accolades, including a James Beard nomination for his work on The Spiaggia Cookbook, as well as a Cleo Award, one of the advertising industry’s highest honors. Among the many books for which he has contributed his distinctive photography are The Salpicón Cookbook: Contemporary Mexican Cuisine; Stonewall Kitchen Harvest; Wine Bar Food: Mediterranean Flavors to Crave With Wines to Match; Williams-Sonoma Mastering: Soups & Stews; and Chocolate and Vanilla. Today, Jeff is the go-to person for world renowned chefs who want to capture their cuisine on camera. For years he has built relationships with some of the city’s most beloved culinary masterminds including Ryan Poli of Perennial, Grant Achatz of Alinea, Tony Mantuano of Spiaggia and Shawn McClain.

From Adidas to Puma to tear-away pants, athletic apparel has been as much a fashion trend as it has been functional. Through the years, the style has evolved from baggy to tight to yoga and back again so finding the right fit for the sport inspires as much confidence as the actual exercise itself. Because let’s face it- if you’re working out you might as well look good doing it.

From reality stars to political rockstars, Chicago has been the home or birthplace to some of the most influential individuals in America. Between the killer arts, theatre, food, cultural scene and down-to-earth Midwest charm-who wouldn’t want to call it home (minus the weather)?